Path of Exile 2’s upcoming patch 0.4.0, The Last of the Druids, launches December 12, 2025. It introduces the long-awaited Druid class, new PoE 2 items, expanded acts, and likely endgame changes. Predictions point to shapeshifting mechanics, nature-themed skills, and possibly new weapon types, such as swords.
Overview of Patch 0.4.0: The Last of the Druids
Grinding Gear Games (GGG) has confirmed that Patch 0.4.0 will be one of the largest updates since Path of Exile 2 entered early access. Scheduled for December 12, 2025, with a full reveal on December 4 via GGG Live, this update is shaping up to redefine the game’s identity.
Key highlights:
Druid class: The centerpiece of the update.
New items: Nature-themed gear and possibly swords.
Expanded acts: Building on Act 4 and temporary Act 5 from 0.3.0.
Free weekend: December 12–15, available on PC and consoles.
The Druid Class
The Druid is the second new class added post-launch (after the Huntress in 0.2.0). While details are scarce, community speculation and leaks suggest:
Shapeshifting: Transformations into bears, wolves, or other beasts.
Nature magic: Earth, storm, and plant-based spells.
Hybrid playstyle: Likely blending melee combat with elemental casting.
Summoning: Possible minion mechanics tied to forest spirits or animals.
This class could fill a gap between the Huntress’s agility and the Witch’s spellcasting, offering versatility for both solo and group play.
New Items and Systems
Patch 0.4.0 is expected to introduce:
Nature-themed gear: Armor sets with druidic aesthetics.
Weapon expansions: Rumors of swords finally being added.
Support gem updates: Building on the rework from 0.3.0.
League mechanics: Following Rise of the Abyssal, a new seasonal challenge may arrive.
These additions could significantly expand build diversity, especially if swords open up new archetypes.
Story Progression
Patch 0.3.0 introduced Act 4 and a temporary Act 5. With 0.4.0, predictions include:
Permanent Act 5: Cementing the narrative beyond the early arcs.
Expanded interludes: More epilogues or side content.
Druid lore integration: Storylines tied to nature, balance, and ancient powers.
This could mark the point where PoE 2’s story begins to diverge meaningfully from PoE 1.
Predictions for Gameplay Impact
Community expectations for 0.4.0 include:
Endgame shakeup: New maps, bosses, or systems to keep veterans engaged.
Balance changes: Adjustments to Huntress and other classes to align with Druid mechanics.
League integration: A fresh mechanic that ties into nature themes, perhaps involving corruption or restoration.
Quality-of-life improvements: UI tweaks, smoother progression, and better loot systems.
Community Excitement
Players are particularly hyped because:
The Druid has been teased since early development.
The free weekend ensures broader exposure.
GGG’s steady patch cadence (every ~4 months) builds trust in ongoing support.
FAQ
1. Can I install the client before the Free Weekend starts so I can jump in immediately?
No. Pre-installation is only possible if you own an Early Access key. Without one, you’ll need to wait until the Free Weekend officially begins at 11 AM on December 12 to download the game.
2. What will be playable during the Free Weekend?
All content currently available in Path of Exile 2’s Early Access including the brand-new The Last of the Druids update. For full details, watch the broadcast at twitch.tv/pathofexile on December 4 at 11 AM PST.
3. What happens once the Free Weekend is over?
Access to the game will end, but your account and progress will remain intact. To keep playing, you can purchase an Early Access Supporter Pack or wait until Path of Exile 2 exits Early Access and becomes fully released.
4. What about my characters if I don’t buy an Early Access key?
They’ll stay linked to your account in the Early Access league, ready for you to continue once Path of Exile 2 officially launches as free-to-play.
5. How do I activate a key?
If you buy a Supporter Pack on PC that includes an Early Access key, it will automatically be applied to the account used for the purchase. Nothing else is required—your adventure can continue right where you left off.
Console players should ensure they purchase the Early Access Supporter Pack directly from the Xbox or PlayStation 5 store.
If you want to check your keys or confirm your status, visit /my-account/early-access.
If you bought a key for one PC client (Standalone, Steam, or Epic) but want to play on another, you can claim a key to unlock that client via /my-account/early-access. Redeem it in the appropriate store. Keep in mind these keys only unlock the client in your library—they don’t grant Early Access by themselves.
For example, if you purchase a Supporter Pack through the Path of Exile website, you can claim a key to enable the game in your Steam Library.
6. Can extra keys from Supporter Packs be used on consoles?
No. Bonus keys are limited to PC activation only.
7. Do I need PS Plus or Xbox Game Pass Core to play online during the Free Weekend?
No subscription is required.
8. Can I buy microtransactions during the Free Weekend?
Yes. Any purchases you make will remain tied to your account permanently.
9. Is there a limit to how far I can progress during the Free Weekend?
No restrictions—your progress is unlimited.
10. Should I create a new account for Path of Exile 2?
Not necessary. If you already have a Path of Exile 1 account, you can use it to access Path of Exile 2.
Conclusion
Patch 0.4.0 The Last of the Druids is poised to be a defining update for Path of Exile 2. With the Druid class, new items, expanded acts, and likely endgame changes, it represents both a content milestone and a turning point in the game’s early access journey. Predictions lean heavily toward shapeshifting mechanics, nature-themed gear, and story expansion, all of which could cement PoE 2’s identity as a deeper, more diverse ARPG.
